Draft Dossier: Earl Thomas

Earl Thomas: Free Safety, Redshirt Sophomore – Texas

Height/Weight: 5’10″, 205

Career stats: 27 games played, 149 tackles, 10 INT, 33 PDs

40-time: 4.49

Thomas is a bona fide stud prospect with upside to spare. He is a known ballhawk who can read and react quickly and precisely. Has good speed and leaping ability. Can diagnose plays due to excellent instincts and intelligence. Although not getting the same hype as Eric Berry, Thomas might end up being the better pro. He is a playmaking safety who has the skills to start immediately. Needs to add strength and can be a liability defending the run, but isn’t afraid to hit. Thomas should come off the board in the middle to late first round.

Best attributes: Always around the ball and is extremely athletic.

Weaknesses: Lacks experience and struggles against the run.

Reminds me of: Ed Reed, Ravens. No one attacks the ball like Reed. He thrives on making the big play, but can also lower the boom.

Why he should be an Eagle: There is still massive uncertainty at the free safety position. Macho Harris could be the answer, or he could be a bust. Marlin Jackson has serious health issues. Quintin Demps is an enigma. Thomas would solve all these problems and likely start day one. He must work on his tackling technique, but he is blessed with unlimited potential.

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Tags: 2010 NFL Draft, Best safeties in 2010 draft, Earl Thomas, Texas